Are you driven by passion for the environment — in conservation, law, science, or climate change? The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) invites full-time learners and Grade 12 students to apply for its prestigious 2025–2026 Bursary Programme. This award is not just about money—it’s a chance to deepen your expertise while contributing to South Africa’s environmental future.


What Makes the DFFE Bursary Unique?

  • Focused Fields
    From Biodiversity & Conservation, Forestry Management, and Fisheries to Climate Change & Air Quality, Chemicals & Waste, Oceans & Coasts, and Regulatory Compliance, the DFFE supports career paths across diverse environmental sectors. Each area comes with its own reference code—like B&C/01/2025 for biodiversity.
    Forestry and Fisheries Dept.Careers Portal
  • Comprehensive Financial Support
    The bursary offers up to R50,000 per annum—designed to support your education effectively.
    Forestry and Fisheries Dept.Zabursaries
  • Equal Opportunity at Its Core
    DFFE prioritizes students from previously disadvantaged backgrounds and people with disabilities. Eligible applicants include full-time students or those currently in Matric—but must not be employed or have previously participated in a public service internship.
    Forestry and Fisheries Dept.Zabursaries

Who Can Apply?

  • Math and ambition are required — Matric with a full-time study plan at a recognized South African university or college.
  • Minimum entry criteria: Be a South African citizen, unemployed, not previously employed by DFFE, and not a former intern.
  • Diverse fields accepted — from NDip and BTech to Honours and MSc across environmental disciplines.
    ZabursariesForestry and Fisheries Dept.

Bursary Coverage & What to Expect

Here’s how your journey might unfold with DFFE funding:

SupportHighlights
Monetary ValueUp to R50,000 per annum to ease education costs. Forestry and Fisheries Dept.Zabursaries
Academic DirectionStay focused on studies in environmental science, law, conservation, and more.
Service BackGraduates are required to complete an internship tied to the bursary contract. Zabursaries

Application Essentials

When the application window opens (typically around September–October), here’s how to strengthen your case:

1. Complete a Prescribed Application Form
Ensure the correct reference number (e.g., B&C/01/2025) and field are clearly indicated.
Forestry and Fisheries Dept.Zabursaries

2. Prepare Required Documentation
Include all of the following — failure to do so may disqualify your submission:

  • School or academic records, matric certificate or current Matric results
  • ID documents of you and your parents/guardians
  • Proof of income or affidavits
  • Proof of university registration (if enrolled)
  • A compelling motivation letter explaining why you deserve the bursary
    Forestry and Fisheries Dept.Zabursaries

3. Submit Applications via Hand Delivery or Post

  • Pretoria: Environment House, 473 Steve Biko St, Arcadia
  • Cape Town: Foretrust Building, Foreshore
  • Or send to: Director-General, DFFE Bursary Section, Private Bag X447, Pretoria, 0001
    No email or faxed submissions accepted.
    Forestry and Fisheries Dept.Zabursaries

4. Wait for Feedback
Only shortlisted and successful candidates are notified—typically by the end of January the next year.
Forestry and Fisheries Dept.Zabursaries


Why Act Now?

  • Relevant, high-impact fields: DFFE supports study areas that tackle urgent environmental issues.
  • Financial relief and focus: Free your mind from money worries so you can focus on academic success.
  • Post-graduation opportunity: Your bursary includes a built-in internship—great for easing into your career.
  • Join the future of sustainability: Help build a greener tomorrow while developing your expertise.

Summary Table

DetailInformation
Fields SupportedConservation, Forestry, Fisheries, Law, Oceans, Climate, etc.
Annual ValueUp to R50,000
EligibilitySA citizen, Matric or full-time student, unemployed, not a past intern
Application DeadlineTypically around late 2025
How to ApplyComplete form + documentation, hand-deliver or post to DFFE
What Happens AfterShortlist invited to sign bursary contract & do internship post-graduation

Final Thoughts

If your heart is set on a career driven by conservation, sustainable development, or environmental justice, the DFFE Bursary Programme 2025–2026 is one of the most direct ways to get there. With financial support, academic structure, and hands-on experience—and no employment strings attached—you’ll be well-positioned to make a lasting impact.

Stay ready—watch DFFE’s official channels from September for the new application window, and gather your documents now

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